Harlem Perspective, NYC 

I’ve visited New York a number of times now and this time I wanted something a little different. 

I usually stay in midtown and a friend offered for me to stay with her in Harlem – an area I haven’t explored, apart from Donosaur Ribs. Mmmm ribssss….

It’s given me a whole new perspective on the city and I’m very glad I accepted. 

I’ve walked all around 129th to 125th on Lennox each day to get the subway. I even walked right to 40th street through Central Park! 

I had an incredible dining experience at Sylvia’s, great bagels & OJ at Lennox Cafe, a beautiful pizza at Babbalucci’s and enjoyed wine to soulful sounds at Red Rooster in the wee hours. 

Come to think of it, Sylvia’s gospel Sundays and Red Rooster at 2am were so of my fave experiences so far on this trip! Probably because they are both so authentic. Sylvia’s is full of locals coming in to eat soul food & listen to the gospel after Sunday church. At Red Rooster, the music was incredible and everyone was grooving. We were the minority and it came complete with a dealer out the back and a line up. 

You get a few funny looks from the locals but I’ve always felt safe. There’s even a Michelin starred sushi restaurant across the road too! Unfortunately it’s closed Sunday for lunch when I wanted to dine. 

There’s always fun characters on the street, laughing and having fun with their friends. Of course, there is the sad side too, the homeless and those who can’t afford to live well. 

A new perspective and one I am thankful to have had. 

Next time I come, Brooklyn is on the cards.